Tag: materialism

When Materialism Infringes on Religion’s Domain

What happens when our understanding of the world is split into the competing camps of science and religion? In the first part of this article series, we talked about the difference between logos and mythos, and said that both were forms of knowledge that were necessary for our human survival. In the modern world, though,…


PREMIERING 4/29 9:15PM ET: Materialist Doctor Does 180 After Seeing Heaven During NDE | Mysteries of Life (S1, E6)

Materialism, a theory that denies the existence of the soul, has had a powerful influence on the sciences. Dr. Eben Alexander, a neurosurgeon, would subscribe to this theory until he had a near-death experience (NDE). After the bacterial meningitis worsened and he went into a coma that left doctors with low hope, Alexander says he…


Materialist Doctor Does 180 After Seeing Heaven During NDE | Mysteries of Life (S1, E6)

Materialism, a theory that denies the existence of the soul, has had a powerful influence on the sciences. Dr. Eben Alexander, a neurosurgeon, would subscribe to this theory until he had a near-death experience (NDE). After the bacterial meningitis worsened and he went into a coma that left doctors with low hope, Alexander says he…


Book Review: ‘Confucius’ Courtyard: Architecture, Philosophy and the Good Life in China’

Something we often take for granted is a courtyard. It is a place of relaxation, serenity, or gathering, but we may not know how much the courtyard is steeped in history—in this case, Chinese history. Xing Ruan, architect and Guangqi Chair Professor and dean at the School of Design at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, has…


A Life of Meaning, Without Buying

Lately, I’ve been buying a lot of things: a nice watch, some cool folding knives, some tools, and outdoor gear. It’s fun! But as I give in to these impulse purchases, I notice that the thrill doesn’t last that long, and it leaves me wanting more. And of course it dawns on me that this…


The Art of Wanting Less

There are some practical steps we can take to get more out of life than what money can buy.“The secret of happiness, you see, is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” –Socrates I had always loved to shop. A lot. I could spend a whole Saturday going from…